Branch Liner Curing Control for Stable Pipeline Junction Lining
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe lining methods face challenges in maintaining the shape and stability of branch liners during the curing process, particularly at complex junctions, where the inflatable bladder may collapse after resin curing, making it difficult to safely remove the bladder and ensuring proper overlap for leak prevention.
Innovation Solution
A controlled heating and cooling method using a temperature sensor and one-way pressure relief valve to monitor and regulate the curing process of a heat-curable resin within a branch liner, ensuring the bladder is inflated until the resin is fully cured and then safely deflated to prevent collapse, allowing for precise positioning and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the inflatable bladder is used to maintain branch liner shape during curing, then the liner shape stability is improved, but the bladder may collapse after curing making removal difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The bladder is designed with dynamic pressure control - inflated during curing to maintain shape, then deflated after curing for easy removal. The system transitions from a static support structure to a removable one through controlled pressure changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The bladder is inflated before curing to establish proper liner shape, and the curing process is allowed to complete while inflated. After curing is confirmed complete, the bladder is then deflated and removed, preparing the system in advance for each stage.
2Productivity
If heat is applied to expedite resin curing, then the curing speed is improved, but the resin may not cool properly causing collapse
Solution Approach 1:
Temperature sensors provide real-time feedback on resin temperature during heating and cooling. The system monitors temperature continuously to ensure proper curing while preventing overheating, and monitors cooling to ensure proper solidification before bladder removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The system controls and changes temperature parameters systematically - heating to cure the resin, then controlling the cooling rate to ensure proper solidification. Temperature thresholds are set to trigger different operational phases.
3Reliability
If overlapping of liners is implemented at branches, then leak prevention is improved, but positioning accuracy becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The bladder serves multiple functions: positioning the branch liner, maintaining its shape during curing, and supporting it during cooling. This multi-functionality simplifies the positioning process while ensuring accurate overlap with main line liners.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method ensures the branch liner maintains its shape and can be safely removed after curing, preventing leaks and ensuring proper overlap, thereby enhancing the reliability and efficiency of pipe renovation processes.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature sensor to monitor the temperature of the branch liner
Implementation Method 2
curing of the heat-curable resin
Implementation Method 3
heating based on actual temperature
Implementation Method 4
a one-way pressure relief valve to allow air to escape from the bladder when a preset pressure level is exceeded
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A method of lining a branch area in a pipeline (60) using an inflatable bladder (70). The method comprises steps of preparing a branch liner with resin and positioning the branch liner in a pipeline, inflating the bladder (70) and running a flow of air and steam through the bladder while monitoring its temperature. After curing of the resin, temperature of the liner is monitored and the bladder is removed only after proper cooling of the liner.